Nepal's Health Ministry on Thursday dismissed media reports that some Indian businessmen have received Chinese vaccines against the coronavirus in Kathmandu to be eligible for travelling to China.

Some media reports claimed that dozens of Indian businessmen flew from New Delhi to Kathmandu just to get the Chinese vaccine after Beijing made it mandatory for those wishing to visit China for business or study purposes to get vaccinated with the Chinese vaccines.

China has donated 800,000 doses of vaccines to Nepal.

There is no possibility of Indian businessmen getting the Chinese vaccines in Nepal as those wishing to get vaccinated must produce their identity before receiving the jab, said Ganesh Shrivastav, information officer at the Ministry of Health and Population.

"We have been regularly maintaining the record of those receiving vaccines against COVID-19, so there is no possibility of someone getting vaccinated without disclosing their identity,"&nbsp;he told PTI.

Srivastav said that he has clarified the issue to Indian authorities.&nbsp;

Nepal's Health Ministry on Thursday dismissed media reports that some Indian businessmen have received Chinese vaccines against the coronavirus in Kathmandu to be eligible for travelling to China.

Nepal's Health Ministry on Thursday dismissed media reports that some Indian businessmen have received Chinese vaccines against the coronavirus in Kathmandu to be eligible for travelling to China. Some media reports claimed that dozens of Indian businessmen flew from New Delhi to Kathmandu just to get the Chinese vaccine after Beijing made it mandatory for those wishing to visit China for business or study purposes to get vaccinated with the Chinese vaccines. China has donated 800,000 doses of vaccines to Nepal. There is no possibility of Indian businessmen getting the Chinese vaccines in Nepal as those wishing to get vaccinated must produce their identity before receiving the jab, said Ganesh Shrivastav, information officer at the Ministry of Health and Population. "We have been regularly maintaining the record of those receiving vaccines against COVID-19, so there is no possibility of someone getting vaccinated without disclosing their identity," he told PTI. Srivastav said that he has clarified the issue to Indian authorities.

Nepal rejects reports of Indian businessmen getting Chinese vaccines in Kathmandu

Nepal on Wednesday celebrated New Year 2078 as per the ancient Bikram Sambat Hindu calendar amidst a spike in new Covid-19 cases.&nbsp;

The calendar associated with King Bikramaditya of India is regarded as the official calendar of Nepal and the Nepalese New Year usually starts in mid-April.&nbsp;

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, in a televised address to the nation, congratulated the people and counted his government's achievements and performances.&nbsp;

He praised the government's policies in fighting the coronavirus pandemic, saying that the country suffered fewer losses in terms of lives and economy.&nbsp;

"Keeping the pandemic in mind, the government worked to control the spread of the virus and because of our good policies, we didn't fail," Oli claimed.&nbsp;

His address came amidst fear of a second wave of the virus transmission.&nbsp;

Doctors and public health experts are concerned with the rising number of children testing positive for the Covid-19.&nbsp;

Nepal has so far reported 3,061 deaths due to the contagion. After a decline in the number of new patients, the Covid-19 cases have surged lately.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Population reported 580 new cases in the last 24 hours, taking the country's tally to 281,564.&nbsp;

During the same period, 129 people have been discharged.&nbsp;

Currently, there are 4,056 active patients across the country. &nbsp;

Nepal on Wednesday celebrated New Year 2078 as per the ancient Bikram Sambat Hindu calendar amidst a spike in new Covid-19 cases. The calendar associated with King Bikramaditya of India is regarded as the official calendar of Nepal and the Nepalese New Year usually starts in mid-April.

Nepal on Wednesday celebrated New Year 2078 as per the ancient Bikram Sambat Hindu calendar amidst a spike in new Covid-19 cases. The calendar associated with King Bikramaditya of India is regarded as the official calendar of Nepal and the Nepalese New Year usually starts in mid-April. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, in a televised address to the nation, congratulated the people and counted his government's achievements and performances. He praised the government's policies in fighting the coronavirus pandemic, saying that the country suffered fewer losses in terms of lives and economy. "Keeping the pandemic in mind, the government worked to control the spread of the virus and because of our good policies, we didn't fail," Oli claimed. His address came amidst fear of a second wave of the virus transmission. Doctors and public health experts are concerned with the rising number of children testing positive for the Covid-19. Nepal has so far reported 3,061 deaths due to the contagion. After a decline in the number of new patients, the Covid-19 cases have surged lately. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Population reported 580 new cases in the last 24 hours, taking the country's tally to 281,564. During the same period, 129 people have been discharged. Currently, there are 4,056 active patients across the country.

Nepal celebrates new year amidst increasing Covid-19 cases 

Nepal's last King Gyanendra Veer Vikram Singh on Sunday arrived in Uttarakhand's Haridwar to participate in the ongoing Kumbh festivities in the holy city.&nbsp;

Nepal's centuries-old monarchy was abolished in May 2008 by the parliament and replaced by a republic where the president was elected as the head of state. &nbsp;

During his visit, King Gyanendra met Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Kailashanand Giri Maharaj of Niranjani Akhara at Dakshin Kali Temple and took his blessings. He will offer prayers in the Kali temple and will also take blessings after visiting the seers.&nbsp;

King Gyanendra has arrived in Haridwar for the first time on the occasion of Kumbh. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Tirath Singh Rawat welcomed the arrival of King Gyanendra Veer Vikram Singh, according to Uttarakhand Chief Minister's Office (CMO).&nbsp;

In a message, CM said, "Welcome to Devbhoomi Uttarakhand and Haridwar Kumbh. You are blessed by the saints and the Ganges. Take the holy benefit of Aquarius by taking bath."&nbsp;

As a representative of CM Rawat, Director General of Information and Public Relations Department, Ranvir Singh Chauhan went to Haridwar and welcomed Gyanendra Veer Vikram Singh by offering flowers on behalf of the Chief Minister, The King thanked the Chief Minister for the gesture.&nbsp;

King Gyanendra is scheduled to join the royal procession of Niranjani Akhara tomorrow to take a bath in the Ganges and take the blessings of the saints.&nbsp;

"I would like to thank Acharya ji for inviting me here today, and I feel that this holy land is a peaceful place. And the relation between India and Nepal will grow stronger," King Gyanendra told ANI.&nbsp;

"I pray for the well-being of people at the time of the Covid-19 pandemic," he added. This year the Kumbh will be held from April 1 to 30 in Haridwar. In normal circumstances, Kumbh continues for nearly four months but this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the duration of the congregation has been curtailed to one month.&nbsp;

Nepal's last King Gyanendra Veer Vikram Singh on Sunday arrived in Uttarakhand's Haridwar to participate in the ongoing Kumbh festivities in the holy city. Nepal's centuries-old monarchy was abolished in May 2008 by the parliament and replaced by a republic where the president was elected as the head of state.

Nepal's last King Gyanendra Veer Vikram Singh on Sunday arrived in Uttarakhand's Haridwar to participate in the ongoing Kumbh festivities in the holy city. Nepal's centuries-old monarchy was abolished in May 2008 by the parliament and replaced by a republic where the president was elected as the head of state. During his visit, King Gyanendra met Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Kailashanand Giri Maharaj of Niranjani Akhara at Dakshin Kali Temple and took his blessings. He will offer prayers in the Kali temple and will also take blessings after visiting the seers. King Gyanendra has arrived in Haridwar for the first time on the occasion of Kumbh. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Tirath Singh Rawat welcomed the arrival of King Gyanendra Veer Vikram Singh, according to Uttarakhand Chief Minister's Office (CMO). In a message, CM said, "Welcome to Devbhoomi Uttarakhand and Haridwar Kumbh. You are blessed by the saints and the Ganges. Take the holy benefit of Aquarius by taking bath." As a representative of CM Rawat, Director General of Information and Public Relations Department, Ranvir Singh Chauhan went to Haridwar and welcomed Gyanendra Veer Vikram Singh by offering flowers on behalf of the Chief Minister, The King thanked the Chief Minister for the gesture. King Gyanendra is scheduled to join the royal procession of Niranjani Akhara tomorrow to take a bath in the Ganges and take the blessings of the saints. "I would like to thank Acharya ji for inviting me here today, and I feel that this holy land is a peaceful place. And the relation between India and Nepal will grow stronger," King Gyanendra told ANI. "I pray for the well-being of people at the time of the Covid-19 pandemic," he added. This year the Kumbh will be held from April 1 to 30 in Haridwar. In normal circumstances, Kumbh continues for nearly four months but this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the duration of the congregation has been curtailed to one month.

Nepal King reaches Haridwar to participate in Kumbh festival 

Nepal has reported 303 new cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of infections in the nation to 280,028, the health ministry said on Sunday. &nbsp;

The nation has also reported 3,040 deaths due to the contagious viral disease so far.&nbsp;

"Nepal has been witnessing a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the past one week. As many as 303 new cases of the novel coronavirus infections were detected across the country in the past 24 hours," the Ministry of Health and Population said in a statement.&nbsp;

For the past couple of months Nepal had witnessed very low corona infection cases, however, the cases have gone up in the last one week.&nbsp;

The new cases were detected when 3,125 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests conducted on Sunday.&nbsp;

With this, the country's COVID-19 case tally has jumped to 280,028 including 3,040 cases of fatality, the ministry said. &nbsp;

As of Sunday, Nepal's COVID-19 recovery rate stands at 97.9 per cent which is the highest among the SAARC countries.&nbsp;

There are 2,961 corona active people undergoing treatment at different isolation centres across Nepal.&nbsp;

Of the total cases so far, 274,027 people have recovered whereas 3,040 have died, the ministry said.&nbsp;

Nepal has reported 303 new cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of infections in the nation to 280,028, the health ministry said on Sunday.

Nepal has reported 303 new cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of infections in the nation to 280,028, the health ministry said on Sunday. The nation has also reported 3,040 deaths due to the contagious viral disease so far. "Nepal has been witnessing a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the past one week. As many as 303 new cases of the novel coronavirus infections were detected across the country in the past 24 hours," the Ministry of Health and Population said in a statement. For the past couple of months Nepal had witnessed very low corona infection cases, however, the cases have gone up in the last one week. The new cases were detected when 3,125 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests conducted on Sunday. With this, the country's COVID-19 case tally has jumped to 280,028 including 3,040 cases of fatality, the ministry said. As of Sunday, Nepal's COVID-19 recovery rate stands at 97.9 per cent which is the highest among the SAARC countries. There are 2,961 corona active people undergoing treatment at different isolation centres across Nepal. Of the total cases so far, 274,027 people have recovered whereas 3,040 have died, the ministry said.

Nepal reports 303 new cases of coronavirus: Health Ministry 

Twenty people have sustained injuries after a chariot fell and clashes erupted during a religious festival in Nepal's Bhaktapur.&nbsp;

'Bisket jatra', a chariot-pulling festival, started in Bhaktapur municipality, 16 km east of Kathmandu, on Saturday morning.&nbsp;

Soon after the festival was declared open a chariot fell and clashes erupted.&nbsp;

Two persons were injured as they came under the wheels of the chariot, police said, adding that some persons sustained injuries while pulling the chariot.&nbsp;

The injured have been admitted to Bhaktapur District Hospital for medical treatment.&nbsp;

Later in the night on Saturday, a clash broke out among the groups involved in the pulling of the chariot, regarding the traditional route that the chariot ought to have taken.&nbsp;

'Bisket jatra', an annual Hindu festival, this year is coinciding with the Nepalese New Year. The festival will go on till April 18.&nbsp;

Twenty people have sustained injuries after a chariot fell and clashes erupted during a religious festival in Nepal's Bhaktapur. 'Bisket jatra', a chariot-pulling festival, started in Bhaktapur municipality, 16 km east of Kathmandu, on Saturday morning.

Twenty people have sustained injuries after a chariot fell and clashes erupted during a religious festival in Nepal's Bhaktapur. 'Bisket jatra', a chariot-pulling festival, started in Bhaktapur municipality, 16 km east of Kathmandu, on Saturday morning. Soon after the festival was declared open a chariot fell and clashes erupted. Two persons were injured as they came under the wheels of the chariot, police said, adding that some persons sustained injuries while pulling the chariot. The injured have been admitted to Bhaktapur District Hospital for medical treatment. Later in the night on Saturday, a clash broke out among the groups involved in the pulling of the chariot, regarding the traditional route that the chariot ought to have taken. 'Bisket jatra', an annual Hindu festival, this year is coinciding with the Nepalese New Year. The festival will go on till April 18.

20 people hurt as chariot falls during religious fete in Nepal 

Nepal is witnessing worst forest fires in years. Five people have died so far trying to put out the fires that have been raging since January as per an official quoted by Reuters. The fire has given rise to a lot of smoke that has wafted across that mountain and creating air quality issues as it settles around capital Kathmandu.

A senior official of Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority said that wildfires were burning in at least 60 places across 22 of Nepal's 77 administrative districts.&nbsp;

Details on losses from the fires are still being collected, Sharma said. This has been the worst fire season by number since 2012, when the government started keeping records.

"Forest fires are the main reason for the rising air pollution in Kathmandu and many other places," Sharma told Reuters.

"Wildfires could hit the peak later this month if the ongoing dry spell continued," he said.

Nepal ordered closure of schools for four days at the end of March after air pollution climbed to hazardous levels

Forest fires often erupt in Nepal during the January-May dry season, when villagers burn dry leaves in the woodlands to prompt fresh grass growth for their cattle.

Sharma said the number of fires this year were 15 times more than those occurring in 2020. He didn't immediately have a reason for the increase.

The air quality index (AQI) in Kathmandu was at an unhealthy level of 174 on Friday, according to data published on iqair.com, a site that monitors air quality. An AQI level below 50 is considered good.

(With Reuters inputs)

Nepal is witnessing worst forest fires in years. Five people have died so far trying to put out the fires that have been raging since January as per an official quoted by Reuters.

Nepal is witnessing worst forest fires in years. Five people have died so far trying to put out the fires that have been raging since January as per an official quoted by Reuters. The fire has given rise to a lot of smoke that has wafted across that mountain and creating air quality issues as it settles around capital Kathmandu. A senior official of Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority said that wildfires were burning in at least 60 places across 22 of Nepal's 77 administrative districts. Details on losses from the fires are still being collected, Sharma said. This has been the worst fire season by number since 2012, when the government started keeping records. "Forest fires are the main reason for the rising air pollution in Kathmandu and many other places," Sharma told Reuters. "Wildfires could hit the peak later this month if the ongoing dry spell continued," he said. Nepal ordered closure of schools for four days at the end of March after air pollution climbed to hazardous levels Forest fires often erupt in Nepal during the January-May dry season, when villagers burn dry leaves in the woodlands to prompt fresh grass growth for their cattle. Sharma said the number of fires this year were 15 times more than those occurring in 2020. He didn't immediately have a reason for the increase. The air quality index (AQI) in Kathmandu was at an unhealthy level of 174 on Friday, according to data published on iqair.com, a site that monitors air quality. An AQI level below 50 is considered good. (With Reuters inputs)

Nepal fights worst forest fires in years

Four ministers in Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli-led Cabinet, who belonged to the CPN-Maoist Centre led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, were relieved of their Parliament membership on Thursday.

Energy Minister Top Bahadur Rayamajhi, Industry Minister Lekhraj Bhatta, Urban Development Minister Prabhu Sah and Labour Minister Gaurishankar Chaudhary lost their positions as lawmakers upon the recommendation of their party.

Reading out a notice during Thursday''s meeting of the House of Representatives, Speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota said that the four ministers have been relieved of their position as lawmakers after the decision of the CPN-Maoist Centre.

The four leaders, however, can continue as ministers in the Oli-led Cabinet for six more months. But, they should retain their post if they wish to continue more than that, according to prevailing laws.

Rayamajhi, Bhatta, Sah and Chaudhary did not return to the CPN-Maoist Centre even after the revival of their party in February this year.

Instead, they decided to join the Oli-led CPN-UML, where they have been enjoying Cabinet berths.

Prime Minister Oli''s dissolution of the House of Representatives in December last year triggered a political crisis in Nepal. However, in a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court February reinstated the lower house of Parliament.

The political scenario in the country worsened after the Supreme Court last month nullified CPN-MC's merger with CPN-UML. The two parties had merged in May 2018 to form a unified Nepal Communist Party following the victory of their alliance in the 2017 general elections.&nbsp;

Four ministers in Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli-led Cabinet, who belonged to the CPN-Maoist Centre led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, were relieved of their Parliament membership on Thursday.

Four ministers in Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli-led Cabinet, who belonged to the CPN-Maoist Centre led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, were relieved of their Parliament membership on Thursday. Energy Minister Top Bahadur Rayamajhi, Industry Minister Lekhraj Bhatta, Urban Development Minister Prabhu Sah and Labour Minister Gaurishankar Chaudhary lost their positions as lawmakers upon the recommendation of their party. Reading out a notice during Thursday''s meeting of the House of Representatives, Speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota said that the four ministers have been relieved of their position as lawmakers after the decision of the CPN-Maoist Centre. The four leaders, however, can continue as ministers in the Oli-led Cabinet for six more months. But, they should retain their post if they wish to continue more than that, according to prevailing laws. Rayamajhi, Bhatta, Sah and Chaudhary did not return to the CPN-Maoist Centre even after the revival of their party in February this year. Instead, they decided to join the Oli-led CPN-UML, where they have been enjoying Cabinet berths. Prime Minister Oli''s dissolution of the House of Representatives in December last year triggered a political crisis in Nepal. However, in a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court February reinstated the lower house of Parliament. The political scenario in the country worsened after the Supreme Court last month nullified CPN-MC's merger with CPN-UML. The two parties had merged in May 2018 to form a unified Nepal Communist Party following the victory of their alliance in the 2017 general elections.

Four Maoist ministers in Nepal relieved of Parliament membership

Nepal is experiencing its worst fire season in almost a decade as huge blazes rage across the country's forests. Air quality in the capital Kathmandu was ranked as the worst in the world on Tuesday.

Nepal hit by worst wildfires in almost a year, govt shuts schools

Nepal's main opposition party Nepali Congress has initiated moves to topple Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and form an alternative government under its leadership with the support of the CPN-Maoist Centre and other parties. 
 
The Central Working Committee of the Nepali Congress (NC) on Saturday decided to take initiative to form a new government under its leadership, according to party's senior leader Prakash Man Singh. 
 
The NC will ask Prime Minister Oli to step down and allow formation of a new government, said Singh. 
If he does not resign, the NC will move a no-trust motion against him in the House of Representatives and take initiative to form a new government under its leadership to save the democratic achievements of the past, he added. 
 
There is very much possibility of regression threatening the democratic republic system hard earned by the people through various movements, as Prime Minister Oli's unconstitutional move has posed a threat to democracy, he added. 
 
Being the main opposition and also a key partner of framing the Constitution of Nepal in 2015 it is our responsibility to protect democracy, he said. 
 
Prime Minister Oli's dissolution of the House of Representatives in December triggered a political crisis in Nepal. However, in a landmark ruling, the apex court in February reinstated the lower house of Parliament. 
The political scenario in the country worsened after the Supreme Court last month nullified CPN-MC's merger with CPN-UML. The two parties had merged in May 2018 to form a unified Nepal Communist Party following the victory of their alliance in the 2017 general elections. 
 
"We will hold talks with all pro-democracy parties before forming a new government," Singh told PTI. 
Informed sources said that a faction of the ruling CPN-UML, Janata Samajwadi Party and CPN-Maoist Centre will also join the move if Nepali Congress takes initiatives to form a new government under its leadership. 
Prime Minster Oli led government will lose majority in the lower house if CPN-Maoist Centre led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' withdraws its support, according to party sources. 
 
On Saturday, Prachanda said that the country's politics had taken a new turn after the NC decided to seek PM Oli's resignation and take initiative to form the next government under its leadership. 
 
"I am going to intensify talks with political parties and am hopeful that a new government will be formed and there will be a new course of events," he said at a programme in Kaplivastu. 
 
Addressing the participants of the program, Prachanda said a new government will soon be formed and a new political atmosphere will be created. 
 
A senior leader of CPN-Maoist Centre has said that the Maoist party will withdraw its support to the Oli government that would pave way for forming an alternative government under the leadership of the Nepali Congress. 
 
Meanwhile, the Standing Committee meeting of the Maoist party which was scheduled to take place on Sunday has been postponed as most of its members are outside Kathmandu. 
 
During the next Standing Committee meeting of the party a decision is likely to be taken to withdraw support from the Oli government.&nbsp;

Nepal's main opposition party Nepali Congress has initiated moves to topple Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and form an alternative government under its leadership with the support of the CPN-Maoist Centre and other parties.

Nepal's main opposition party Nepali Congress has initiated moves to topple Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and form an alternative government under its leadership with the support of the CPN-Maoist Centre and other parties. The Central Working Committee of the Nepali Congress (NC) on Saturday decided to take initiative to form a new government under its leadership, according to party's senior leader Prakash Man Singh. The NC will ask Prime Minister Oli to step down and allow formation of a new government, said Singh. If he does not resign, the NC will move a no-trust motion against him in the House of Representatives and take initiative to form a new government under its leadership to save the democratic achievements of the past, he added. There is very much possibility of regression threatening the democratic republic system hard earned by the people through various movements, as Prime Minister Oli's unconstitutional move has posed a threat to democracy, he added. Being the main opposition and also a key partner of framing the Constitution of Nepal in 2015 it is our responsibility to protect democracy, he said. Prime Minister Oli's dissolution of the House of Representatives in December triggered a political crisis in Nepal. However, in a landmark ruling, the apex court in February reinstated the lower house of Parliament. The political scenario in the country worsened after the Supreme Court last month nullified CPN-MC's merger with CPN-UML. The two parties had merged in May 2018 to form a unified Nepal Communist Party following the victory of their alliance in the 2017 general elections. "We will hold talks with all pro-democracy parties before forming a new government," Singh told PTI. Informed sources said that a faction of the ruling CPN-UML, Janata Samajwadi Party and CPN-Maoist Centre will also join the move if Nepali Congress takes initiatives to form a new government under its leadership. Prime Minster Oli led government will lose majority in the lower house if CPN-Maoist Centre led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' withdraws its support, according to party sources. On Saturday, Prachanda said that the country's politics had taken a new turn after the NC decided to seek PM Oli's resignation and take initiative to form the next government under its leadership. "I am going to intensify talks with political parties and am hopeful that a new government will be formed and there will be a new course of events," he said at a programme in Kaplivastu. Addressing the participants of the program, Prachanda said a new government will soon be formed and a new political atmosphere will be created. A senior leader of CPN-Maoist Centre has said that the Maoist party will withdraw its support to the Oli government that would pave way for forming an alternative government under the leadership of the Nepali Congress. Meanwhile, the Standing Committee meeting of the Maoist party which was scheduled to take place on Sunday has been postponed as most of its members are outside Kathmandu. During the next Standing Committee meeting of the party a decision is likely to be taken to withdraw support from the Oli government.

Nepal's main opposition party gathering support to create alternative government

Nepal gave emergency authorisation to India’s COVID-19 vaccine COVAXIN, becoming the third country to approve the shot.

COVID-19: Nepal gives an emergency nod to India's COVAXIN

Hundreds of climbers set to return to Mount Everest next month as the world's highest peak reopens after a year of closure due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. According to the Nepal Tourism department, only 300 foreign mountaineers can climb Mt. Everest in the spring season.

Mt. Everest to reopen first time since pandemic

Janatantrik Tarai Mukti Morcha claimed responsibly for a pressure cooker bomb blast that claimed 8 injured people, the explosives were used as a pressure cooker.

Nepal Bomb Blast: Janatantrik Tarai Mukti Morcha claims responsibility

Nepal's CPN (Maoist Centre) led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' on Sunday asked its ministers in Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli's government to resign en masse for breaching party discipline, amid their reluctance to quit the Cabinet. 
 
This is the second time the the splinter faction of the Nepal Communist Party has instructed its ministers in the Oli government to resign from their posts. 
 
The Central Committee meeting of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) on Sunday asked Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa and Energy Minister Top Bahadur Rayamajhi to resign en masse for breaching party discipline, My Republica newspaper reported. 
 
Earlier on Saturday, the party recalled its ministers from the Cabinet and directed all its leaders nominated at the CPN-UML Central Committee to make their positions clear within 24 hours. 
 
However, all ministers belonging to the CPN (MC) including Home Minister Thapa and Energy Minister Rayamajhi seem non-committal to the party's decision as of now, the paper said. 
 
As the ministers belonging to the party are seen reluctant to tender their resignations, the party will now write to them in person to do so, said Ganesh Shah, a central committee member of the CPN (MC). 
 
Sunday's meeting also discussed taking action against its cabinet ministers in the government, according to party leaders. 
 
Industry Minister Lekhraj Bhatta, Urban Development Minister Prabhu Sah and Labor Minister Gaurishankar Chaudhari are parliamentarians belonging to the CPN (MC), while Water Supply Minister Mani Thapa and Youth Minister Dawa Lama are central leaders of the party. 
 
As per the legal provision, lawmakers will lose their seats in the upper house and the lower house of Parliament if they choose to leave the party or their party decides to expel them from the party. 
 
On Friday, the Central Committee meeting of the CPN (UML) led by Prime Minister Oli had nominated 23 leaders of Maoist Centre, including the ministers to the party's central committee which the faction opposing him has said is against the norms of the party. 
 
Nepal's Election Commission on Tuesday asked the CPN (UML) led by Oli and the CPN (Maoist Center) led by Prachanda to come up with a new name and election symbol of the party if they decide to merge their parties again after the Supreme Court quashed the 2018 unification of the two parties. 
 
The CPN (UML) and CPN (Maoist Centre) merged in May 2018 to form a unified Nepal Communist Party following the victory of their alliance in the 2017 general elections.

Nepal's CPN (Maoist Centre) led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' on Sunday asked its ministers in Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli's government to resign en masse for breaching party discipline, amid their reluctance to quit the Cabinet.

Nepal's CPN (Maoist Centre) led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' on Sunday asked its ministers in Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli's government to resign en masse for breaching party discipline, amid their reluctance to quit the Cabinet. This is the second time the the splinter faction of the Nepal Communist Party has instructed its ministers in the Oli government to resign from their posts. The Central Committee meeting of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) on Sunday asked Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa and Energy Minister Top Bahadur Rayamajhi to resign en masse for breaching party discipline, My Republica newspaper reported. Earlier on Saturday, the party recalled its ministers from the Cabinet and directed all its leaders nominated at the CPN-UML Central Committee to make their positions clear within 24 hours. However, all ministers belonging to the CPN (MC) including Home Minister Thapa and Energy Minister Rayamajhi seem non-committal to the party's decision as of now, the paper said. As the ministers belonging to the party are seen reluctant to tender their resignations, the party will now write to them in person to do so, said Ganesh Shah, a central committee member of the CPN (MC). Sunday's meeting also discussed taking action against its cabinet ministers in the government, according to party leaders. Industry Minister Lekhraj Bhatta, Urban Development Minister Prabhu Sah and Labor Minister Gaurishankar Chaudhari are parliamentarians belonging to the CPN (MC), while Water Supply Minister Mani Thapa and Youth Minister Dawa Lama are central leaders of the party. As per the legal provision, lawmakers will lose their seats in the upper house and the lower house of Parliament if they choose to leave the party or their party decides to expel them from the party. On Friday, the Central Committee meeting of the CPN (UML) led by Prime Minister Oli had nominated 23 leaders of Maoist Centre, including the ministers to the party's central committee which the faction opposing him has said is against the norms of the party. Nepal's Election Commission on Tuesday asked the CPN (UML) led by Oli and the CPN (Maoist Center) led by Prachanda to come up with a new name and election symbol of the party if they decide to merge their parties again after the Supreme Court quashed the 2018 unification of the two parties. The CPN (UML) and CPN (Maoist Centre) merged in May 2018 to form a unified Nepal Communist Party following the victory of their alliance in the 2017 general elections.

Nepal's CPN (Maoist Centre) asks its ministers in Oli-led govt to resign en-masse

Nepal's CPN (Maoist Centre) led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda on Saturday recalled its ministers from the Cabinet led by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and directed all its leaders nominated at the CPN-UML Central Committee to make their positions clear within 24 hours, intensifying the rift between the two factions.&nbsp;

Among the ministers called back are Minister for Home Affairs Ram Bahadur Thapa, Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Top Bahadur Rayamajhi, Minister for Water Supply Mani Chandra Thapa, Urban Development Minister Prabhu Shah, Minister for Youth and Sports Dawa Lama Tamang and Minister for Labour Gauri Shankar Chaudhary, the Kathmandu Post reported.&nbsp;

The decision was taken by the standing committee meeting of the CPN-MC held this morning at Paris Danda, the Centre's party office here.&nbsp;

"Our Standing Committee meeting has decided to call back all our ministers in the federal government and told the leaders nominated by UML to make their position clear within 24 hours," Devendra Poudel, a Standing Committee member, was quoted as saying by the daily.&nbsp;

"We will begin action against those failing to abide by the party's decisions, he said.&nbsp;

As per the legal provision, lawmakers will lose their seats in the upper house and the lower house of Parliament if they choose to leave the party or their party decides to expel them from the party.&nbsp;

On Friday, the Central Committee meeting of the CPN (UML) led by Prime Minister Oli had nominated 23 leaders of Maoist Centre, including the ministers to the party's central committee which the faction opposing him has said is against the norms of the party.&nbsp;

Since the Supreme Court invalidated the Nepal Communist Party (NCP) merger and revived its constituents CPN-UML and Nepal Communist Party (Maoist Centre) on Sunday last, Oli has been keeping at bay the faction led by Madhav Kumar Nepal that had opposed him and tightening his hold on the party by relieving leaders close to Nepal from party positions, the daily said.&nbsp;

Nepal's Election Commission on Tuesday asked the CPN (UML) led by Oli and the CPN (Maoist Center) led by Prachanda to come up with a new name and election symbol of the party if they decide to merge their parties again after the Supreme Court quashed the 2018 unification of the two parties.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Nepal's CPN (Maoist Centre) led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda on Saturday recalled its ministers from the Cabinet led by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and directed all its leaders nominated at the CPN-UML Central Committee to make their positions clear within 24 hours, intensifying the rift between the two factions.

Nepal's CPN (Maoist Centre) led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda on Saturday recalled its ministers from the Cabinet led by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and directed all its leaders nominated at the CPN-UML Central Committee to make their positions clear within 24 hours, intensifying the rift between the two factions. Among the ministers called back are Minister for Home Affairs Ram Bahadur Thapa, Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Top Bahadur Rayamajhi, Minister for Water Supply Mani Chandra Thapa, Urban Development Minister Prabhu Shah, Minister for Youth and Sports Dawa Lama Tamang and Minister for Labour Gauri Shankar Chaudhary, the Kathmandu Post reported. The decision was taken by the standing committee meeting of the CPN-MC held this morning at Paris Danda, the Centre's party office here. "Our Standing Committee meeting has decided to call back all our ministers in the federal government and told the leaders nominated by UML to make their position clear within 24 hours," Devendra Poudel, a Standing Committee member, was quoted as saying by the daily. "We will begin action against those failing to abide by the party's decisions, he said. As per the legal provision, lawmakers will lose their seats in the upper house and the lower house of Parliament if they choose to leave the party or their party decides to expel them from the party. On Friday, the Central Committee meeting of the CPN (UML) led by Prime Minister Oli had nominated 23 leaders of Maoist Centre, including the ministers to the party's central committee which the faction opposing him has said is against the norms of the party. Since the Supreme Court invalidated the Nepal Communist Party (NCP) merger and revived its constituents CPN-UML and Nepal Communist Party (Maoist Centre) on Sunday last, Oli has been keeping at bay the faction led by Madhav Kumar Nepal that had opposed him and tightening his hold on the party by relieving leaders close to Nepal from party positions, the daily said. Nepal's Election Commission on Tuesday asked the CPN (UML) led by Oli and the CPN (Maoist Center) led by Prachanda to come up with a new name and election symbol of the party if they decide to merge their parties again after the Supreme Court quashed the 2018 unification of the two parties. (With inputs from agencies)

Prachanda-led Maoist Centre recalls its ministers from Oli's Cabinet 

Mount Everest is reopening next month and hundreds of climbers are set to return to the highest peak in the world but under strict conditions. In the peak climbing season that begins in April, more than 300 foreign climbers are likely to attempt to climb Mount Everest, said tourism department official Mira Acharya.&nbsp;

Nepal had closed the mountain in 2020 as part of measures to stem the spread of coronavirus.

381 climbers had attempted to climb Mout Everest in 2019.

"This is ... despite the one-week quarantine requirement and certificate showing the climber had tested negative for the virus," said Acharya.

Eight of the world's 14 highest mountains including Everest are wholly or partly in Nepal, and hundreds of foreign climbers contribute millions of dollars in income annually to the cash-strapped nation.

The country began its vaccination campaign with AstraZeneca shots gifted by India in January. Infections are decreasing with 104 new cases reported on Wednesday, a fraction of the 5,743 cases at its peak in October.

Expedition organisers say the Chinese side of Everest, which was shut to foreign climbers last year, will stay closed this season as well, likely meaning more climbers on the Nepal side.

Garrett Madison of U.S.-based Madison Mountaineering said he was heading a "big team" of climbers to Everest in the April-May climbing season.

"We are not afraid of COVID, but will take precautions," Madison told Reuters.

Not all mountaineering companies are returning.

It is "not a responsible time" to run expeditions given Nepal's weak healthcare system, said Adrian Ballinger of Alpenglow Expeditions.

(With AFP inputs)

Mount Everest is reopening next month and hundreds of climbers are set to return to the highest peak in the world but under strict conditions. In the peak climbing season that begins in April, more than 300 foreign climbers are likely to attempt to climb Mount Everest, said tourism department official Mira Acharya.

Mount Everest is reopening next month and hundreds of climbers are set to return to the highest peak in the world but under strict conditions. In the peak climbing season that begins in April, more than 300 foreign climbers are likely to attempt to climb Mount Everest, said tourism department official Mira Acharya. Nepal had closed the mountain in 2020 as part of measures to stem the spread of coronavirus. 381 climbers had attempted to climb Mout Everest in 2019. "This is ... despite the one-week quarantine requirement and certificate showing the climber had tested negative for the virus," said Acharya. Eight of the world's 14 highest mountains including Everest are wholly or partly in Nepal, and hundreds of foreign climbers contribute millions of dollars in income annually to the cash-strapped nation. The country began its vaccination campaign with AstraZeneca shots gifted by India in January. Infections are decreasing with 104 new cases reported on Wednesday, a fraction of the 5,743 cases at its peak in October. Expedition organisers say the Chinese side of Everest, which was shut to foreign climbers last year, will stay closed this season as well, likely meaning more climbers on the Nepal side. Garrett Madison of U.S.-based Madison Mountaineering said he was heading a "big team" of climbers to Everest in the April-May climbing season. "We are not afraid of COVID, but will take precautions," Madison told Reuters. Not all mountaineering companies are returning. It is "not a responsible time" to run expeditions given Nepal's weak healthcare system, said Adrian Ballinger of Alpenglow Expeditions. (With AFP inputs)

Mount Everest to reopen from next month

Sapana dreamed of becoming a government official. Each night, in her hut along a bumpy dirt road, the 17-year-old lit a single solar-powered bulb dangling from the ceiling and hit the books, plotting out a future much different than her mother’s.

But as the coronavirus crept across Nepal, closing the schools, Sapana lost focus. Stuck in her village with little to do, she struck up a friendship with an out-of-work laborer.

They fell in love. Soon they married. Now, Sapana has given up her professional dreams, with no plans to return to school.

“Things might have been different if I hadn’t discontinued my studies,” Sapana said recently, as she sat breastfeeding her 2-month-old son on the floor of her simple home. Her family name was withheld to protect her privacy.

What happened to Sapana in a small town in Nepal is happening to girls across the developing world. Child marriage is increasing at alarming levels in many places, the United Nations says, and the coronavirus pandemic is reversing years of hard-earned progress toward keeping young women in school.

In a report released Monday, the U.N. Children’s Fund predicted that an additional 10 million girls this decade will be at risk of child marriage, defined as a union before the age of 18. Henrietta Fore, UNICEF’s executive director, said that “COVID-19 has made an already difficult situation for millions of girls even worse.”

What especially concerns advocates for children is the clear link between marrying early and dying young. Pregnancy complications and childbirth are the leading cause of death in girls ages 15 to 19 in developing countries, according to the World Health Organization, and the children of child brides are at a much higher risk of infant mortality.

Experts say the pandemic has intensified the factors that drive child marriage, such as a lack of education, economic hardship, parental death and teen pregnancy, which has been amplified by disruptions in getting contraception.

“COVID-19 has definitely taken us backward,” said Nankali Maksud, a senior adviser at UNICEF.

In some cases, young girls are forced by parents or other authority figures into marriage with older men. But child advocates also worry about the young women who, because of the pandemic’s effect, are drifting away from school and see early marriage as their only option, abandoning ambitions for an education and a better life.

Many child marriages are never registered. UNICEF estimates that 650 million girls and women alive today were married in childhood. Child advocates say they are seeing an upsurge in places where it has long been a problem, such as India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia and Malawi, where teen pregnancies in some areas have tripled.

In Nepal, where the legal age for marriage is 20, the situation seems especially acute. Interlocking problems particular to the country and this moment make it difficult for many young women to avoid early marriage.

One of Asia’s poorest nations, Nepal relies on remittances and tourism. The pandemic has devastated both. Usually, at this time of year, foreign tourists head for the mountains to begin expensive treks into the Annapurna Range and up the slopes of Mount Everest. This year, the money that flows from them into so many layers of Nepal’s economy has all but dried up.

Millions of laborers from Nepal work abroad, often as cooks, cleaners, maids, guards and nannies in India or the Middle East. In 2019, Nepal earned $8.25 billion from foreign remittances. But with most of the world’s economies hurting, that remittance stream has also dwindled. Legions of young Nepali men, many of them single, have recently returned home.

Many others have lost their jobs in Nepal’s cities. A great number of young men now roam around their mountainside villages, bored and broke. That was how Sapana met her husband, Hardas.

Hardas, who said he was around 20, used to work as a traveling mason, often in cities such as Kathmandu and Nepalgunj. But after he was laid off in April, at the beginning of the pandemic, he came back to his native Rapti Sonari, a small town of about 10,000 people, 300 miles west of Kathmandu.

The houses are spread out in a maze of dirt roads beneath the hills. Most are made from mud and stone. Sapana’s father, Ram Dayal, bought an auto rickshaw right before the lockdown hit. Now he has monthly payments of 30,000 rupees (around $250) and almost no customers.

Dayal was not happy that his daughter married so young, but he conceded that her leaving the house helped ease his financial burden. He has five other mouths to feed.

“She would have had a better life if she completed 10th grade,” Dayal said.

Ghumni, his wife and Sapana’s mother, agreed. She, too, was a child bride and ended up with four children and zero education.

Activists who fight child marriage say they are working in the most difficult conditions they have ever faced, even as the problem worsens. Nepal has imposed harsh restrictions on vehicular movement. When infections surged, activists were confined indoors like everybody else. Several said that the number of child marriages in their areas had doubled or nearly doubled during the pandemic.

“We are at back to square one,” said Hira Khatri, an anti-child-marriage activist in the district that includes Rapti Sonari.

Across central Nepal, many families shared stories of watching their daughters disappear into early marriages.

Mayawati, 17, who also lives in Rapti Sonari, dreamed of studying agriculture. But her family’s struggles during the pandemic made her feel guilty about being a burden to her parents. She dropped out of school, then married a man who worked as a menial laborer. Her dreams, too, have quietly slipped away.

“We have no money,” said Mayawati, whose last name was also withheld. “How was I supposed to continue my studies?”

Mayawati said that most of her friends who had married during the lockdown were now pregnant.

Some people in Nepal feel strongly about what they see as the benefits of child marriage. Several elders in the Madhesi community, based on the southern plains near the border of India, said they had falsified their daughters’ birth certificates to avoid getting in trouble.

“Marrying daughters in their young age has made me happier. It’s our practice,” said Mina Kondu, who said she recently doctored her 16-year-old daughter’s birth certificate, making her appear to be 19, which was still below the legal age but close enough, the family believed.

“The police cannot stop us,” she said.

Kondu, who lives in a village about three hours’ drive from Sapana’s, said that if the families didn’t arrange for their daughters to marry young, the daughters would do it anyway, without permission, and dishonor the family.

Sapana dreamed of becoming a government official. Each night, in her hut along a bumpy dirt road, the 17-year-old lit a single solar-powered bulb dangling from the ceiling and hit the books, plotting out a future much different than her mother’s.

Sapana dreamed of becoming a government official. Each night, in her hut along a bumpy dirt road, the 17-year-old lit a single solar-powered bulb dangling from the ceiling and hit the books, plotting out a future much different than her mother’s. But as the coronavirus crept across Nepal, closing the schools, Sapana lost focus. Stuck in her village with little to do, she struck up a friendship with an out-of-work laborer. They fell in love. Soon they married. Now, Sapana has given up her professional dreams, with no plans to return to school. “Things might have been different if I hadn’t discontinued my studies,” Sapana said recently, as she sat breastfeeding her 2-month-old son on the floor of her simple home. Her family name was withheld to protect her privacy. What happened to Sapana in a small town in Nepal is happening to girls across the developing world. Child marriage is increasing at alarming levels in many places, the United Nations says, and the coronavirus pandemic is reversing years of hard-earned progress toward keeping young women in school. In a report released Monday, the U.N. Children’s Fund predicted that an additional 10 million girls this decade will be at risk of child marriage, defined as a union before the age of 18. Henrietta Fore, UNICEF’s executive director, said that “COVID-19 has made an already difficult situation for millions of girls even worse.” What especially concerns advocates for children is the clear link between marrying early and dying young. Pregnancy complications and childbirth are the leading cause of death in girls ages 15 to 19 in developing countries, according to the World Health Organization, and the children of child brides are at a much higher risk of infant mortality. Experts say the pandemic has intensified the factors that drive child marriage, such as a lack of education, economic hardship, parental death and teen pregnancy, which has been amplified by disruptions in getting contraception. “COVID-19 has definitely taken us backward,” said Nankali Maksud, a senior adviser at UNICEF. In some cases, young girls are forced by parents or other authority figures into marriage with older men. But child advocates also worry about the young women who, because of the pandemic’s effect, are drifting away from school and see early marriage as their only option, abandoning ambitions for an education and a better life. Many child marriages are never registered. UNICEF estimates that 650 million girls and women alive today were married in childhood. Child advocates say they are seeing an upsurge in places where it has long been a problem, such as India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia and Malawi, where teen pregnancies in some areas have tripled. In Nepal, where the legal age for marriage is 20, the situation seems especially acute. Interlocking problems particular to the country and this moment make it difficult for many young women to avoid early marriage. One of Asia’s poorest nations, Nepal relies on remittances and tourism. The pandemic has devastated both. Usually, at this time of year, foreign tourists head for the mountains to begin expensive treks into the Annapurna Range and up the slopes of Mount Everest. This year, the money that flows from them into so many layers of Nepal’s economy has all but dried up. Millions of laborers from Nepal work abroad, often as cooks, cleaners, maids, guards and nannies in India or the Middle East. In 2019, Nepal earned $8.25 billion from foreign remittances. But with most of the world’s economies hurting, that remittance stream has also dwindled. Legions of young Nepali men, many of them single, have recently returned home. Many others have lost their jobs in Nepal’s cities. A great number of young men now roam around their mountainside villages, bored and broke. That was how Sapana met her husband, Hardas. Hardas, who said he was around 20, used to work as a traveling mason, often in cities such as Kathmandu and Nepalgunj. But after he was laid off in April, at the beginning of the pandemic, he came back to his native Rapti Sonari, a small town of about 10,000 people, 300 miles west of Kathmandu. The houses are spread out in a maze of dirt roads beneath the hills. Most are made from mud and stone. Sapana’s father, Ram Dayal, bought an auto rickshaw right before the lockdown hit. Now he has monthly payments of 30,000 rupees (around $250) and almost no customers. Dayal was not happy that his daughter married so young, but he conceded that her leaving the house helped ease his financial burden. He has five other mouths to feed. “She would have had a better life if she completed 10th grade,” Dayal said. Ghumni, his wife and Sapana’s mother, agreed. She, too, was a child bride and ended up with four children and zero education. Activists who fight child marriage say they are working in the most difficult conditions they have ever faced, even as the problem worsens. Nepal has imposed harsh restrictions on vehicular movement. When infections surged, activists were confined indoors like everybody else. Several said that the number of child marriages in their areas had doubled or nearly doubled during the pandemic. “We are at back to square one,” said Hira Khatri, an anti-child-marriage activist in the district that includes Rapti Sonari. Across central Nepal, many families shared stories of watching their daughters disappear into early marriages. Mayawati, 17, who also lives in Rapti Sonari, dreamed of studying agriculture. But her family’s struggles during the pandemic made her feel guilty about being a burden to her parents. She dropped out of school, then married a man who worked as a menial laborer. Her dreams, too, have quietly slipped away. “We have no money,” said Mayawati, whose last name was also withheld. “How was I supposed to continue my studies?” Mayawati said that most of her friends who had married during the lockdown were now pregnant. Some people in Nepal feel strongly about what they see as the benefits of child marriage. Several elders in the Madhesi community, based on the southern plains near the border of India, said they had falsified their daughters’ birth certificates to avoid getting in trouble. “Marrying daughters in their young age has made me happier. It’s our practice,” said Mina Kondu, who said she recently doctored her 16-year-old daughter’s birth certificate, making her appear to be 19, which was still below the legal age but close enough, the family believed. “The police cannot stop us,” she said. Kondu, who lives in a village about three hours’ drive from Sapana’s, said that if the families didn’t arrange for their daughters to marry young, the daughters would do it anyway, without permission, and dishonor the family.

In Nepal and across the world, child marriage is rising

In a surprise and unexpected decision, Nepal's Supreme Court on Sunday annulled the unification of the ruling Nepal Communist Party's factions and paved the way for them to be divided into two separate parties.

Nepal: New twist as Supreme Court annuls ruling party

A plan to build a 'passageway' to South Asia through Tibet has been included in China's 14th five-year-plan, reported the state-run media. Xinhua said that Tibet "will be supported" to build an important passageway" opening to South Asia.

Beijing plans passage to South Asia through Nepal and Tibet

Nepal's radical Maoist group leader Netra Bikram Chand, who made his first public appearance in two years, on Friday said that he was committed to the peace agreement reached between his banned outfit and the government aimed at ending violent attacks, extortion and bombings by the rebels.

Rebel leader Chand, known by his guerrilla name Biplav, emerged out of hiding after the government lifted a ban on his Nepal Communist Party group, CPN-Biplav, so it could take part in the public signing of the peace agreement.

“I would like to assure everyone that we will abide by the agreement signed with the government,” said Chand, while addressing the agreement signing ceremony here, which was attended by Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa, who led the talks team from the government side.

The two sides on Thursday had reached the three-point agreement. Under the peace deal, the rebel group would seek to address all its political issues through dialogue and carry out all political activities peacefully, and the government, in return, would lift the ban imposed on the party’s activities and initiate the process to release the party’s cadres arrested in the past and withdraw cases against them.

Speaking during the ceremony, Prime Minister Oli said, “Nepal has entered a peaceful era. There is no more violence in Nepal or any violent conflicts left in Nepal."

The Nepal government had imposed a ban on the activities of the CPN-Biplav in March 2019 after the party carried out two blasts in Kathmandu, killing one person.

Chand, once a loyal lieutenant of Pushpa Kamal Dahal ''Prachanda'', who led the decade-long Maoist war, had formed his Communist Party of Nepal, saying Dahal had left the “people’s war” halfway and that he wanted to complete it through a “unified people’s revolution.”

Chand and Thapa, the incumbent home minister who was also a key member of the Maoist party during the war, had parted ways with Dahal in 2012, six years after the historic peace deal.

But Chand and Thapa’s association did not last long as they differed on their political lines. Though Thapa was for launching a revolt on the basis of the “people’s war”, he returned to Dahal’s Maosit party in 2016. In 2018, Thapa was appointed home minister in the Oli Cabinet.

Days after becoming the home minister, Thapa had issued an arrest warrant against Chand. Three years later, once the comrades in arms, who had become comrades at wars, were sharing the same stage on Friday, as Chand formally agreed to renounce politics of violence.

Nepal's radical Maoist group leader Netra Bikram Chand, who made his first public appearance in two years, on Friday said that he was committed to the peace agreement reached between his banned outfit and the government aimed at ending violent attacks, extortion and bombings by the rebels.

Nepal's radical Maoist group leader Netra Bikram Chand, who made his first public appearance in two years, on Friday said that he was committed to the peace agreement reached between his banned outfit and the government aimed at ending violent attacks, extortion and bombings by the rebels. Rebel leader Chand, known by his guerrilla name Biplav, emerged out of hiding after the government lifted a ban on his Nepal Communist Party group, CPN-Biplav, so it could take part in the public signing of the peace agreement. “I would like to assure everyone that we will abide by the agreement signed with the government,” said Chand, while addressing the agreement signing ceremony here, which was attended by Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa, who led the talks team from the government side. The two sides on Thursday had reached the three-point agreement. Under the peace deal, the rebel group would seek to address all its political issues through dialogue and carry out all political activities peacefully, and the government, in return, would lift the ban imposed on the party’s activities and initiate the process to release the party’s cadres arrested in the past and withdraw cases against them. Speaking during the ceremony, Prime Minister Oli said, “Nepal has entered a peaceful era. There is no more violence in Nepal or any violent conflicts left in Nepal." The Nepal government had imposed a ban on the activities of the CPN-Biplav in March 2019 after the party carried out two blasts in Kathmandu, killing one person. Chand, once a loyal lieutenant of Pushpa Kamal Dahal ''Prachanda'', who led the decade-long Maoist war, had formed his Communist Party of Nepal, saying Dahal had left the “people’s war” halfway and that he wanted to complete it through a “unified people’s revolution.” Chand and Thapa, the incumbent home minister who was also a key member of the Maoist party during the war, had parted ways with Dahal in 2012, six years after the historic peace deal. But Chand and Thapa’s association did not last long as they differed on their political lines. Though Thapa was for launching a revolt on the basis of the “people’s war”, he returned to Dahal’s Maosit party in 2016. In 2018, Thapa was appointed home minister in the Oli Cabinet. Days after becoming the home minister, Thapa had issued an arrest warrant against Chand. Three years later, once the comrades in arms, who had become comrades at wars, were sharing the same stage on Friday, as Chand formally agreed to renounce politics of violence.

Nepal government, Maoist rebels formally sign peace agreement

India will be funding Nepali Rs 246 million for the reconstruction of three more cultural heritage projects in Nepal after six out of the 28 heritage sites contracts have already been reconstructed.&nbsp;

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Contract Agreements for restoration and reconstruction were signed on Wednesday for Jestha Varna Mahavihara in Lalitpur, Sulighyang Gumba, and Shermathang Gumba located in Sindhupalchowk district, according to Ministry of External Affairs Ministry (MEA) release.&nbsp;

However, the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) will be providing technical assistance for the restoration of Jestha Varna Mahavihara while other two will be undertaken by Central Level Project Implementation Unit (CLPIU), it added.&nbsp;

The signing event was witnessed by the Head of Development Partnership and Reconstruction Wing of the Indian Embassy to Nepal, Project Director of CLPIU (Building) of National Reconstruction Authority (NRA).&nbsp;

"Out of 28 cultural sector projects to be undertaken under Indian reconstruction grant, total 6 contracts have already been awarded," the Ministry said.&nbsp;

On February 11, India signed a contract with Nepal for the reconstruction of three cultural heritage projects.&nbsp;

Contracts were signed for conservation and retrofitting of Seto Machindranath Temple, Construction of Dharmashalaat Budhanikantha Temple and conservation as well as the development of Kumari Chhen and Kumari Niwas in Nepal.&nbsp;

On February 28, Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) Sushil Gyawali, and Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Bidya Sundar Shakya jointly carried out 'bhoomi pooja' for restoration of Seto Machindranath temple in Kathmandu.&nbsp;

India has been working with Nepal for restoration of cultural heritage projects, reflecting the common cultural heritage, which has been the bed rock of the strong and friendly historical linkages.&nbsp;

India remains committed to continue its development partnership with Nepal, which is long-standing, unwavering, unmatched and multidimensional in nature, as per the priorities of Government of Nepal, the MEA said.&nbsp;

India will be funding Nepali Rs 246 million for the reconstruction of three more cultural heritage projects in Nepal after six out of the 28 heritage sites contracts have already been reconstructed.

India will be funding Nepali Rs 246 million for the reconstruction of three more cultural heritage projects in Nepal after six out of the 28 heritage sites contracts have already been reconstructed. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Contract Agreements for restoration and reconstruction were signed on Wednesday for Jestha Varna Mahavihara in Lalitpur, Sulighyang Gumba, and Shermathang Gumba located in Sindhupalchowk district, according to Ministry of External Affairs Ministry (MEA) release. However, the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) will be providing technical assistance for the restoration of Jestha Varna Mahavihara while other two will be undertaken by Central Level Project Implementation Unit (CLPIU), it added. The signing event was witnessed by the Head of Development Partnership and Reconstruction Wing of the Indian Embassy to Nepal, Project Director of CLPIU (Building) of National Reconstruction Authority (NRA). "Out of 28 cultural sector projects to be undertaken under Indian reconstruction grant, total 6 contracts have already been awarded," the Ministry said. On February 11, India signed a contract with Nepal for the reconstruction of three cultural heritage projects. Contracts were signed for conservation and retrofitting of Seto Machindranath Temple, Construction of Dharmashalaat Budhanikantha Temple and conservation as well as the development of Kumari Chhen and Kumari Niwas in Nepal. On February 28, Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) Sushil Gyawali, and Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Bidya Sundar Shakya jointly carried out 'bhoomi pooja' for restoration of Seto Machindranath temple in Kathmandu. India has been working with Nepal for restoration of cultural heritage projects, reflecting the common cultural heritage, which has been the bed rock of the strong and friendly historical linkages. India remains committed to continue its development partnership with Nepal, which is long-standing, unwavering, unmatched and multidimensional in nature, as per the priorities of Government of Nepal, the MEA said.

India to fund NRs 246 million for 3 cultural heritages' reconstruction in Nepal 

No rally is complete without a flag! After facing a strict lockdown for most of 2020, Nepal's flag-makers are back in business thanks to the country's political crisis.

South Asia Diary: Nepal flag-makers thrive amid political crisis

Nepal's Chief of Army Staff, Purna Chandra Thapa on Monday received his first dose of the Made-in-India Covid-19 vaccine.&nbsp;

Nepal last month received the second shipment of one million doses of the coronavirus vaccines. The AstraZeneca vaccine is manufactured by the Serum Institute of India (SII) under the name Covishield. &nbsp;

Nepal began its nationwide inoculation drive after receiving the first one million Covishield vaccines following the emergency use approval in January. &nbsp;

An Air India aircraft carrying the consignment of Covid-19 vaccines had landed at the Tribhuvan International Airport in the morning, according to sources at the Indian Embassy in Nepal.&nbsp;

The Nepal government has decided to procure a total of two million doses of the vaccine manufactured by the SII. Last month, India gifted one million doses of Covishield vaccine to Nepal.&nbsp;

The Nepal government has already started administering the vaccines on health workers, security personnel and journalists on priority basis.&nbsp;

The second lot of vaccines would be used to inoculate people above 60 years of age, which is 8.73 per cent of Nepal's population, in the vaccination drive that will begin on March 7. &nbsp;

India is one of the world's biggest drugmakers and an increasing number of countries have already approached it for procuring coronavirus vaccines.&nbsp;

India, under the Vaccine Maitri initiative, has been providing coronavirus vaccines to its neighbouring countries. &nbsp;

India has sent consignments of domestically produced coronavirus vaccines under grant assistance to Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Mauritius and Seychelles.&nbsp;

It is also undertaking commercial supplies of the doses to a number of countries, including Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Brazil and Morocco.&nbsp;

Nepal's Chief of Army Staff, Purna Chandra Thapa on Monday received his first dose of the Made-in-India Covid-19 vaccine. Nepal last month received the second shipment of one million doses of the coronavirus vaccines.

Nepal's Chief of Army Staff, Purna Chandra Thapa on Monday received his first dose of the Made-in-India Covid-19 vaccine. Nepal last month received the second shipment of one million doses of the coronavirus vaccines. The AstraZeneca vaccine is manufactured by the Serum Institute of India (SII) under the name Covishield. Nepal began its nationwide inoculation drive after receiving the first one million Covishield vaccines following the emergency use approval in January. An Air India aircraft carrying the consignment of Covid-19 vaccines had landed at the Tribhuvan International Airport in the morning, according to sources at the Indian Embassy in Nepal. The Nepal government has decided to procure a total of two million doses of the vaccine manufactured by the SII. Last month, India gifted one million doses of Covishield vaccine to Nepal. The Nepal government has already started administering the vaccines on health workers, security personnel and journalists on priority basis. The second lot of vaccines would be used to inoculate people above 60 years of age, which is 8.73 per cent of Nepal's population, in the vaccination drive that will begin on March 7. India is one of the world's biggest drugmakers and an increasing number of countries have already approached it for procuring coronavirus vaccines. India, under the Vaccine Maitri initiative, has been providing coronavirus vaccines to its neighbouring countries. India has sent consignments of domestically produced coronavirus vaccines under grant assistance to Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Mauritius and Seychelles. It is also undertaking commercial supplies of the doses to a number of countries, including Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Brazil and Morocco.

Nepal's Army Chief gets Made-in-India Covid-19 vaccine's first dose

Yesterday Nepal's Supreme Court has decided to reject Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's decision to dissolve the Parliament. PM KP Sharma Oli called the Supreme Court's verdict 'controversial'.

WION Dispatch: Nepal's SC decides to reject PM Oli's decision; Oli calls the verdict controversial

Nepal's embattled Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will not resign but face a floor test in parliament instead, an associate said on Wednesday, a day after the Supreme Court rejected his decision to dissolve the legislature and call early elections.

In a landmark ruling, a five-member constitutional bench led by Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher on Tuesday annulled the Oli government's "unconstitutional" decision to dissolve the 275-member lower house of Parliament. The court also ordered the government to summon the House session within the next 13 days. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-supreme-court-overturns-prime-minister-kp-sharma-olis-house-dissolution-365693">Also read: Nepal Supreme Court overturns Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's House dissolution</a> 
 
Nepal plunged into a political crisis on December 20 after President Bidya Devi Bhandari dissolved the House and announced fresh elections on April 30 and May 10 at the recommendation of Prime Minister Oli, amidst a tussle for power within the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP).

Oli's Press Advisor Surya Thapa said the prime minister, who turned 69 this week, intends to implement the verdict of the apex court after facing Parliament that is due to convene within two weeks.

"The Supreme Court's verdict is controversial, however, it should be accepted and implemented. Its effects will be seen in the future as the decision has not provided any solution to the political problems," Thapa said.

He claimed that the apex court's verdict will further fuel instability and pave way for power-play.

"The Prime Minister will face the House of Representatives to implement the verdict but will not tender his resignation as of now," Thapa was quoted as saying by The Himalayan Times.

Oli's Chief Advisor Bishnu Rimal, mirroring Thapa's sentiments, said that all will have to accept the court's decision. "However, it provides no solution to existing political complications," Rimal said.

Thapa’s reaction comes amid mounting pressure on the prime minister to step down following the court verdict.

A large section of the Nepalese media welcomed the Supreme Court's verdict that reinstated the dissolved House of Representatives. They hailed the decision, saying it has upheld democratic values and safeguarded the Constitution.

"By passing a judgment, the Supreme Court has once again stood by the people, and reestablished the notion of an independent judiciary,” wrote The Kathmandu Post in its editorial."

"Now the House has been reinstated and the politics will return to Parliament, the problems are not yet over. There are too many players in the House with no one controlling the majority and the risk of the dirty game of horse-trading could start soon," the daily warned.

Naya Patrika daily termed the ruling a “defeat for an autocratic ruler” and a “victory for democracy and a challenge for the future.”

"If both the factions of the Communist Party of Nepal (CPN) could utilise the opportunity created by the House reinstatement in a constructive way, it would benefit all the party, the cadres and leaders of the party as well as the entire nation," the Annapurna Post said in its editorial.

"One should use conscience so that the country would not plunge into another political crisis and confrontation," it said.

Meanwhile, Vice-president of the CPN Bamdev Gautam, who has so far maintained a balance between Oli and his rivals Prachanda and Madhav Kumar Nepal, has urged the prime minister to step down.

"As the court verdict has proven that the PM's step was unconstitutional, he must resign immediately," Gautam said.

Bhim Rawal, the Sudurpaschim in-charge of the Dahal-Nepal faction of Nepal Communist Party (NCP), has said on Wednesday Oli should apologise to the people.

"KP Sharma Oli should personally apologise to the nation for dissolving the parliament. If he resigns from the post of Prime Minister on moral grounds and asks for forgiveness from NCP, then only can the party become positive towards him," The Himalayan Times quoted Rawal as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nepal's embattled Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will not resign but face a floor test in parliament instead, an associate said on Wednesday, a day after the Supreme Court rejected his decision to dissolve the legislature and call early elections.

Nepal's embattled Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will not resign but face a floor test in parliament instead, an associate said on Wednesday, a day after the Supreme Court rejected his decision to dissolve the legislature and call early elections. In a landmark ruling, a five-member constitutional bench led by Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher on Tuesday annulled the Oli government's "unconstitutional" decision to dissolve the 275-member lower house of Parliament. The court also ordered the government to summon the House session within the next 13 days. Also read: Nepal Supreme Court overturns Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's House dissolution Nepal plunged into a political crisis on December 20 after President Bidya Devi Bhandari dissolved the House and announced fresh elections on April 30 and May 10 at the recommendation of Prime Minister Oli, amidst a tussle for power within the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP). Oli's Press Advisor Surya Thapa said the prime minister, who turned 69 this week, intends to implement the verdict of the apex court after facing Parliament that is due to convene within two weeks. "The Supreme Court's verdict is controversial, however, it should be accepted and implemented. Its effects will be seen in the future as the decision has not provided any solution to the political problems," Thapa said. He claimed that the apex court's verdict will further fuel instability and pave way for power-play. "The Prime Minister will face the House of Representatives to implement the verdict but will not tender his resignation as of now," Thapa was quoted as saying by The Himalayan Times. Oli's Chief Advisor Bishnu Rimal, mirroring Thapa's sentiments, said that all will have to accept the court's decision. "However, it provides no solution to existing political complications," Rimal said. Thapa’s reaction comes amid mounting pressure on the prime minister to step down following the court verdict. A large section of the Nepalese media welcomed the Supreme Court's verdict that reinstated the dissolved House of Representatives. They hailed the decision, saying it has upheld democratic values and safeguarded the Constitution. "By passing a judgment, the Supreme Court has once again stood by the people, and reestablished the notion of an independent judiciary,” wrote The Kathmandu Post in its editorial." "Now the House has been reinstated and the politics will return to Parliament, the problems are not yet over. There are too many players in the House with no one controlling the majority and the risk of the dirty game of horse-trading could start soon," the daily warned. Naya Patrika daily termed the ruling a “defeat for an autocratic ruler” and a “victory for democracy and a challenge for the future.” "If both the factions of the Communist Party of Nepal (CPN) could utilise the opportunity created by the House reinstatement in a constructive way, it would benefit all the party, the cadres and leaders of the party as well as the entire nation," the Annapurna Post said in its editorial. "One should use conscience so that the country would not plunge into another political crisis and confrontation," it said. Meanwhile, Vice-president of the CPN Bamdev Gautam, who has so far maintained a balance between Oli and his rivals Prachanda and Madhav Kumar Nepal, has urged the prime minister to step down. "As the court verdict has proven that the PM's step was unconstitutional, he must resign immediately," Gautam said. Bhim Rawal, the Sudurpaschim in-charge of the Dahal-Nepal faction of Nepal Communist Party (NCP), has said on Wednesday Oli should apologise to the people. "KP Sharma Oli should personally apologise to the nation for dissolving the parliament. If he resigns from the post of Prime Minister on moral grounds and asks for forgiveness from NCP, then only can the party become positive towards him," The Himalayan Times quoted Rawal as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Nepal PM in no mood to resign, prepared to face Parliament: Oli's Press Advisor

Nepal's Supreme court overturns PM KP Sharma Oli's decision to dissolve the house of representatives. Nepal's top court has also directed the government to recommend calling a meeting of the house in 13 days.

Nepal's top court overturns PM Oli's dissolution

Nepal's top court has decided to reinstatement the countries house of representatives dealing a major blow to caretaker Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's government.

News Alert: Nepal's top court orders reinstates of parliament

A special bench of the Supreme Court of Nepal has reinstated the Lower House of the Parliament which was dissolved by the government of Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli in December 2020.&nbsp;

The SC has deemed Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's decision to dissolve the House as an unconstitutional move, thereby overturning the decision. With this, the house will be reinstated.

The Constitutional Bench led by Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher Rana has directed the government to summon a session of the House of Representatives within 13 days.

Nepal plunged into a political crisis on December 20 after Oli, in a surprise move, dissolved the House of Representatives, amidst a tussle for power with his rival Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda'. His move to dissolve the 275-member House had sparked protests from a large section of the NCP led by Prachanda, also a co-chair of the ruling party.

Oli repeatedly defended his move to dissolve the House of Representatives, saying some leaders of his party were attempting to form a "parallel government".

As many as 13 writ petitions including the one by the ruling Nepal Communist Party's Chief Whip Dev Prasad Gurung were filed at the apex court seeking the restoration of the lower house parliament.

Just some days ago, Prime Minister Oli had warned of an impending protest if it was ordered for the parliament to be reinstated.

(With inputs from agencies)

A special bench of the Supreme Court of Nepal has reinstated the Lower House of the Parliament which was dissolved by the government of Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli in December 2020.

A special bench of the Supreme Court of Nepal has reinstated the Lower House of the Parliament which was dissolved by the government of Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli in December 2020. The SC has deemed Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's decision to dissolve the House as an unconstitutional move, thereby overturning the decision. With this, the house will be reinstated. The Constitutional Bench led by Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher Rana has directed the government to summon a session of the House of Representatives within 13 days. Nepal plunged into a political crisis on December 20 after Oli, in a surprise move, dissolved the House of Representatives, amidst a tussle for power with his rival Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda'. His move to dissolve the 275-member House had sparked protests from a large section of the NCP led by Prachanda, also a co-chair of the ruling party. Oli repeatedly defended his move to dissolve the House of Representatives, saying some leaders of his party were attempting to form a "parallel government". As many as 13 writ petitions including the one by the ruling Nepal Communist Party's Chief Whip Dev Prasad Gurung were filed at the apex court seeking the restoration of the lower house parliament. Just some days ago, Prime Minister Oli had warned of an impending protest if it was ordered for the parliament to be reinstated. (With inputs from agencies)

Nepal Supreme Court overturns Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's House dissolution

Amid the ongoing political turmoil in the country, Nepal caretaker Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Thursday reached the country's Supreme Court to furnish written reply over the cases filed against him.&nbsp;

This comes as Nepal Supreme Court last month had summoned PM Oli in person within seven days with a written response on why he should not be punished for contempt of court.&nbsp;

“Single bench of Justice Manoj Kumar Sharma ordered PM Oli to appear before the court in the contempt of court cases over his comments over a senior advocate and subsequent comments about the sub-judicial case of house dissolution,” said Devendra Dhakal, assistant spokesperson, Supreme Court last month.&nbsp;

Earlier, two advocates had filed separate cases of 'Contempt of Court' against Oli last month over his remarks on the Parliament dissolution case, which is undergoing discussion at the court along with subsequent comment over a senior advocate.&nbsp;

Advocates Kumar Sharma Acharya and Kanchan Krishna Neupane filed the cases against Oli, who is functioning as a 'caretaker prime minister' after dissolving lower house and calling fresh elections, before schedule.&nbsp;

Advocates have claimed that Oli tried to influence the court and made disparaging remarks against legal practitioners. In an event on January 22, Oli during his address at a local gathering claimed that parliament dissolution has been made over time in Nepali history and there is no provision to restore the house.&nbsp;

While defending himself over the issue, which now is undergoing discussion at court, Oli took a jibe at a senior advocate and former chairman of Nepal Bar Association, Krishna Prasad Bhandari, calling him a 'grandfather' lawyer and asked petitioners not to trouble him.&nbsp;

Oli further attacked Bhandari calling his presence at the Supreme Court a 'farce'. The former chair and senior advocate, Krishna Prasad Bhandari, earlier in the week while taking part in the discussion had termed the latest move of Oli as unconstitutional.&nbsp;

The petitioners, who lodged a case against Oli in the Supreme Court, have claimed the statement by Oli has evoked Article 128 (4) of the constitution.&nbsp;

Over a dozen writ petitions have been lodged against Oli after he recommended the President to dissolve the lower house for failing to get an absolute majority in the parliament.&nbsp;

Amid the ongoing political turmoil in the country, Nepal caretaker Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Thursday reached the country's Supreme Court to furnish written reply over the cases filed against him.

Amid the ongoing political turmoil in the country, Nepal caretaker Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Thursday reached the country's Supreme Court to furnish written reply over the cases filed against him. This comes as Nepal Supreme Court last month had summoned PM Oli in person within seven days with a written response on why he should not be punished for contempt of court. “Single bench of Justice Manoj Kumar Sharma ordered PM Oli to appear before the court in the contempt of court cases over his comments over a senior advocate and subsequent comments about the sub-judicial case of house dissolution,” said Devendra Dhakal, assistant spokesperson, Supreme Court last month. Earlier, two advocates had filed separate cases of 'Contempt of Court' against Oli last month over his remarks on the Parliament dissolution case, which is undergoing discussion at the court along with subsequent comment over a senior advocate. Advocates Kumar Sharma Acharya and Kanchan Krishna Neupane filed the cases against Oli, who is functioning as a 'caretaker prime minister' after dissolving lower house and calling fresh elections, before schedule. Advocates have claimed that Oli tried to influence the court and made disparaging remarks against legal practitioners. In an event on January 22, Oli during his address at a local gathering claimed that parliament dissolution has been made over time in Nepali history and there is no provision to restore the house. While defending himself over the issue, which now is undergoing discussion at court, Oli took a jibe at a senior advocate and former chairman of Nepal Bar Association, Krishna Prasad Bhandari, calling him a 'grandfather' lawyer and asked petitioners not to trouble him. Oli further attacked Bhandari calling his presence at the Supreme Court a 'farce'. The former chair and senior advocate, Krishna Prasad Bhandari, earlier in the week while taking part in the discussion had termed the latest move of Oli as unconstitutional. The petitioners, who lodged a case against Oli in the Supreme Court, have claimed the statement by Oli has evoked Article 128 (4) of the constitution. Over a dozen writ petitions have been lodged against Oli after he recommended the President to dissolve the lower house for failing to get an absolute majority in the parliament.

Nepal caretaker PM furnishes written reply in SC over contempt of court cases

Hundreds of women's rights activists took to the streets of Nepal, to protest against the sharp rise in crime against women in recent years. Inequality and discrimination women face. Protesters chanted and raise slogans for the scrapping of a proposed law that would restrict travel for many women.

Women in Nepal demand to scrap a law limiting their travel

To call for an end to violence and discrimination against women and the scrapping of a proposed law that would restrict travel for many women, hundreds of women's right activists and their supporters took to streets in Nepal's capital on Friday.&nbsp;

The protesters marching in the heart of Kathmandu chanted slogans demanding equality. Activists say even though the country's constitution guarantees equal rights to women, there is much more that needs to be done to make it a reality.&nbsp;

They point to the proposed law that would require women under 40 years of age to get permission from their family and local government to travel to the Middle East or Africa as a violation of human rights. The government has said the regulation would help stop human trafficking, but has pointed out it is just a proposal and not a law till now.&nbsp;

The protesters tried to march to the prime minister's office but were blocked by riot police and barbed wire barricades. There were no clashes or violence.&nbsp;

Reshu Aryal, a rights activist in the rally, said she wanted to protest what she saw as police and official indifference to discrimination and sexual violence against women and girls.&nbsp;

To call for an end to violence and discrimination against women and the scrapping of a proposed law that would restrict travel for many women, hundreds of women's right activists and their supporters took to streets in Nepal's capital on Friday.

To call for an end to violence and discrimination against women and the scrapping of a proposed law that would restrict travel for many women, hundreds of women's right activists and their supporters took to streets in Nepal's capital on Friday. The protesters marching in the heart of Kathmandu chanted slogans demanding equality. Activists say even though the country's constitution guarantees equal rights to women, there is much more that needs to be done to make it a reality. They point to the proposed law that would require women under 40 years of age to get permission from their family and local government to travel to the Middle East or Africa as a violation of human rights. The government has said the regulation would help stop human trafficking, but has pointed out it is just a proposal and not a law till now. The protesters tried to march to the prime minister's office but were blocked by riot police and barbed wire barricades. There were no clashes or violence. Reshu Aryal, a rights activist in the rally, said she wanted to protest what she saw as police and official indifference to discrimination and sexual violence against women and girls.

Hundreds rally for women's rights in Nepal

The Nepal political crisis continues to deepen as Prime Minister K.P. Oli's communist rival Prachanda is protesting against him. Prachanda calls dissolution unconstitutional.

KP Oli vs Prachanda: Communist rival Prachanda protests against PM Oli

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